BROWNLEE (nee Russell) Cindy
Passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at Nipissing Serenity Hospice, surrounded by her family. Her final weeks were filled with music, companionship, and love.
She will be deeply missed by her husband of 38 years, Robert Brownlee, and her children, Diane Brownlee Smith (Adam), Jordan Furrow (Andrew), Sandra Brownlee, and Eric Brownlee. Loving sister to Becky Russell (Troy). Beloved Sister-in-law to Kathryn (Jim) and Brian (Nellie). She had a special connection with her Mother-in-law Rae “Dommie” and Auntie Janice. Extraordinary aunt to many. Cherished grandmother to Henry Smith, who brought endless joy to her life.
Cindy was born July 5, 1964 to Stan and Deirdre Russell in North Bay, Ontario. Cindy built a life rich with family, faith, friendship, and service. She carried with her the love of both the Russell and Arnott families throughout her life; a love that shaped her values and inspired the way she cared, gave, and connected with others.
On September 19, 1987, Cindy married the love of her life, Rob, and they began to build their life and family together. When she married into the Brownlee family, she didn’t just join it, she became an integral part of it. Cindy strengthened and established meaningful and lasting family traditions that will be carried on forever.
Cindy worked for many years at Nipissing University where she took pride in her work and made many lifelong friends. One of Cindy’s proudest lifetime achievements was earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts with distinction, while working and raising a family.
Cindy dedicated herself wholeheartedly to volunteer work and looked forward to retirement, in which she planned to give even more of her time to the committees and organizations she cherished. Trinity United Church, Friends of Camp Caritou, Girl Guides of Canada and countless committees benefitted from her passion, leadership, energy and gift for organization. Whether planning fundraisers, chairing meetings, or organizing events, she was proudly known as a person who GSD (Gets Stuff Done) and always did it with a smile, a laugh, and a warm hug.
Cindy always put her family, friends, and her passions first. She loved hosting backyard gatherings and big family dinners, gardening, camping trips, puzzling (despite the help of her cat Chewy), playing a good game of speed Scrabble, crafting, walking, listening to live music, and laughter-filled conversations. She especially treasured time with Henry, proudly hosting “Grandma Camp” and creating memories her family will treasure forever.
Cindy was a person who you met once and immediately became part of her inner circle. A friend with a generous heart and unwavering loyalty who you could count on at any moment- ready with advice, encouragement, or a listening ear. Her warmth, generosity, and zest for life touched all who knew her.
Cindy was a vibrant and beautiful woman who led a busy and wonderful life. She was so much more than any words could ever express. Though her passing leaves a hole in many hearts her example remains a lasting guide on how to live life fully and love deeply.
Visitation will be held on Thursday September 11, 2025, at Martyn Funeral Home from 3:00 - 5:00 and 7:00–9:00 p.m. A service of remembrance will follow on Friday September 12 at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity United Church, with a light luncheon hosted by the UCW. The service can be viewed online at Trinity North Bay - YouTube.
If desired, donations to Friends of Camp Caritou, the Trinity Endowment Fund, or a charity of your choice would be gratefully acknowledged. Online condolences at www.martynfh.com
The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude for the care and compassion provided by the wonderful staff Nipissing Serenity Hospice.
